CATERPILLAR CELEBRATES 100 YEARS OF INNOVATION , INDUSTRY LEADERSHIP
CRADLE TO GRAVE •
The high tonnage belt began to make contact with the structure , causing significant edge fraying and tearing , which reduced the usable width of the belt and compromised its overall performance . The existing alignment system was not robust enough to manage the severity of the mistracking , leading to downtime for belt and structural repairs , increased operational costs and a risk of fire .
To address these challenges , Tru-Trac local technicians conducted a thorough inspection of the conveyor system and installed the Tru-Trac Apex Tracking System . This solution included the installation of both trough side and return side trackers , strategically positioned to maintain belt alignment and prevent edge damage .
The trough side apex trough tracker was installed just after the loading zone , while the return side dual return tracker was placed near the tail pulley . These trackers engaged immediately on start-up , steering the belt to the centre position and continuously ensuring alignment thereafter . King says that the customer was extremely pleased with the performance of Tru-Trac ' s equipment , and that the aligned and protected belt not only enhanced safety but also improved operational efficiency . The mine has now standardised on Tru-Trac belt misalignment solutions for other sections of the mine .
While the company ’ s belt trackers are known for their robust design and even come with a lifetime warranty on some components , other aspects of the conveyor must be monitored carefully for optimal performance . Strydom highlights the importance of conveyor scrapers , which , if not fully functional , can impact the performance of the tracker . " If the belt scraper is not working well , this can allow material to be carried back on the return side of the conveyor belt ," he says . " This material builds up and can compromise the performance and functioning of a tracker ."
As the costliest element of the conveyor system , the belt itself can be severely damaged by misalignment , often starting with wear on the edges . This leads to ply separation , allowing moisture to penetrate the belt carcass and degrade its integrity , usually resulting in premature failure . The acceptance of high performance belt trackers as a standard feature on a conveyor system has grown over the years , King notes . These units are often installed at the outset of a project rather than only after belt misalignment has been identified as a recurring issue . This proactive practice recognises the costly impact of conveyor system downtime , which can potentially bring all or part of an operation to a standstill .
“ The adoption of advanced belt tracking solutions reflects the industry ' s recognition of their role in mitigating downtime and enhancing overall conveyor performance . We believe that our tailored approach , comprehensive assessments and high quality products ensure that our belt tracking solutions align with operational demands and environmental conditions , sustaining efficiency and productivity in diverse industrial applications ,” King says .
“ As conveyor systems continue to evolve , Tru-Trac will remain at the forefront , delivering reliable solutions that uphold the integrity and functionality of these essential systems ,” he concludes . •
Source : supplied by Tru-Trac
PLANT AND EQUIPMENT •
Image supplied by Caterpillar
CATERPILLAR CELEBRATES 100 YEARS OF INNOVATION , INDUSTRY LEADERSHIP
Caterpillar Inc . ( NYSE : CAT ) officially turns 100 on April 15 , marking a century of customer-centric innovation and industry-leading transformation . The company marked its 100th anniversary with celebrations throughout the US in the first week of January this year .
Holt Manufacturing Company and the C . L . Best Tractor Co . merged to form what was then known as the Caterpillar Tractor Co . in 1925 . From the company ’ s first track-type tractor designed to pull combine harvesters in Northern California to autonomous construction and mining equipment and engines that power the world today , Caterpillar products and services have helped its customers complete infrastructure projects that have shaped the modern world .
“ Our success over the last 100 years is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our employees , the continued trust of our customers and the support of our dealers and business partners ,” said company chair and CEO , Jim Umpleby . “ I am proud to lead such a strong team , and I ’ m confident Caterpillar will continue to help our customers build a better , more sustainable world over the next 100 years .”
Celebrations took place in Sanford , North Carolina and Peoria , Illinois . At the company ’ s global headquarters in Irving , Texas , the families of company founders C . L . Best and Benjamin Holt will gather with company leaders and employees to celebrate the first 100 years of innovation as Caterpillar begins its journey into the next century .
On 9 January 2025 , the Centennial World Tour embarked on its journey to visit Caterpillar facilities around the world and provide an interactive and immersive experience for employees and visitors . The company is also commemorating the milestone with limited-edition “ Centennial Grey ” painted machines available for purchase in 2025 .
Caterpillar invites its global employees , customers and stakeholders to join in its 100th anniversary celebrations all year long . To learn more about the company ’ s 100th anniversary , visit caterpillar . com / 100 .
Source : supplied by Caterpillar
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